Activists to Seek Important Reforms for Hungry and Poor People at Annual Lobby Day

WASHINGTON, June 4, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Anti-hunger activists from across the country will storm the nation's capital June 10, 2014, for Bread for the World's annual Lobby Day to advocate for important reforms to U.S. food-aid programs and immigration laws.

"Each year, we are humbled by the droves of advocates who participate in Lobby Day to help change policies that allow hunger and poverty to persist," said Rev. David Beckmann, president of Bread for the World. "As we've witnessed over our last 40 years, nothing is more powerful than the voice of constituents in making lasting change."

Participants will convene at the Georgetown University Hotel and Conference Center for worship, issue briefings, and lobbying practice sessions before heading to Capitol Hill to urge their senators, representatives, and congressional staffs to pass immigration reform without delay. Immigration reform will reduce hunger by ensuring immigrants receive fairer wages and work in better conditions.

In addition, an obscure provision before Congress would change the transportation requirements for U.S. food aid in a way that would make the process of getting food to people in need slower and more expensive—impacting upwards of two million people worldwide. During activists' meetings on Capitol Hill, participants will also urge members of Congress to reject any changes to U.S. food-aid programs that hurt hungry people.

"Food-aid reform and immigration reform are making their way through Congress right now, and decisions made by legislators in the coming weeks could impact millions of people for years to come," said Eric Mitchell, director of government relations for Bread for the World. "As we mark our 40^th anniversary with this important fight for reforms that will help end hunger and poverty around the world, it is inspiring that so many activists plan to join us both physically and virtually."

Those who cannot lobby their members of Congress in person on June 10 are encouraged to participate in Bread for the World's Virtual Lobby Day on Monday, June 9, by calling their members in advance of Tuesday's congressional visits.

Lobby Day will culminate with a reception honoring several members of Congress for their ongoing commitment to fighting hunger. Lobby Day is part of Bread for the World's National Gathering, June 9-10 in Washington, D.C. Under the theme "Bread Rising: Working Together to End Hunger by 2030," this year's events mark the organization's 40^th anniversary.  

Bread for the World (www.bread.org) is a collective Christian voice urging our nation's decision makers to end hunger at home and abroad.

SOURCE Bread for the World